President Hu arrives in quake-hit Yushu to direct relief work

Chinese President Hu Jintao (R front) gives a hug to injured student Zhoema of Tibetan ethnic group during his visit to those injured in the quake receiving treatment at a stadium in the Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Yushu, northwest China's Qinghai Province, April 18, 2010. Hu arrived in Yushu Sunday morning to direct relief work. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

The president, who returned to China Saturday from a shortened visit to Latin America, headed for worst-hit Gyegu Town in Yushu immediately after landing.

Hu first traveled to the village of Zhaxi Datong to inspect the situation and console quake victims.

He then visited the injured receiving treatment at a stadium in Yushu and made sure there were enough medical supplies and that epidemic prevention and control work was proceeding smoothly.

"The top priority is to rescue those still buried alive and to treat the injured. Each life must be cherished," Hu said.

"Secondly, we must take good care of the quake-affected local people to make sure they have food to eat, clean water to drink, a place to sleep and clothes to keep warm.

"Thirdly, we must speed up infrastructure construction and pave the way for relief work and post-quake reconstruction.

"Fourthly, we must create conditions for children to resume classes as soon as possible, even if it has to be in makeshift classrooms.

"There is a lot more work to do and we will continue to make efforts," Hu said.

The president also talked to an injured Tibetan man in a medical tent.

"The Party and the government care about all the victims of the quake. Doctors will give you meticulous treatment...The party and the government will help with a new home...You should have confidence and recover," Hu said as he held the injured man's hands.